Catholics: Thinking about converting need advice and guidence?

I am a 18 year old male of the christian faith. My mother and father are christian and my grandma(on my mothers side) is catholic. Recently I've been asking her question's about the catholic faith and find it highly interesting and have grown to love it, and am thinking about converting. I'm not sure how to tell my family or what to do, I am in desperate need of guidance please helpCatholics: Thinking about converting need advice and guidence?
Be honest with your beliefs and investigation. Ask for their prayers, and tell them that you will pray for them while on your journey of faith.





You will need to speak with a Catholic Priest, and attend RCIA classes to discover if you really can accept the teachings of Jesus Christ is full.





Some biblical thoughts for your journey.





The Apostle [Paul] requires the aid of Tradition (2 Thess. 2:15). Moreover, the Apostle here refers to the scriptures which Timothy was taught in his infancy.





';Now, a good part of the New Testament was not written in his boyhood: Some of the Catholic epistles were not written even when Paul wrote this, and none of the books of the New Testament were then placed on the canon of the Scripture books. He refers, then, to the scriptures of the Old Testament, and, if the argument from this passage proved anything, it would prove too much, viz., that the scriptures of the New Testament were not necessary for a rule of faith.';





Furthermore, Protestants typically read 2 Timothy 3:16-17 out of context. When read in the context of the surrounding passages, one discovers that Paul’s reference to Scripture is only part of his exhortation that Timothy take as his guide Tradition and Scripture. The two verses immediately before it state: ';But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it, and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings which are able to instruct you for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus'; (2 Tim. 3:14–15).





Paul tells Timothy to continue in what he has learned for two reasons: first, because he knows from whom he has learned it—Paul himself—and second, because he has been educated in the scriptures. The first of these is a direct appeal to apostolic tradition, the oral teaching which the apostle Paul had given Timothy. So Protestants must take 2 Timothy 3:16-17 out of context to arrive at the theory of sola scriptura. But when the passage is read in context, it becomes clear that it is teaching the importance of apostolic tradition!





The Bible denies that it is sufficient as the complete rule of faith. Paul says that much Christian teaching is to be found in the tradition which is handed down by word of mouth (2 Tim. 2:2). He instructs us to ';stand firm and hold to the traditions which you were taught by us, either by word of mouth or by letter'; (2 Thess. 2:15).





God Bless you and be with you on your faith journey.


Welcome Home.Catholics: Thinking about converting need advice and guidence?
Why is it such a big deal to them if you join the Catholic Church and why would this cause your family to be upset with you (I'm assuming you are asking this because you are concerned about telling them)? Would they be upset if you joined another christian denomination? If not, why just this one?





Just tell them. You are 18 years old and you can do what you want and do whatever it is that makes you happy. If they don't like that it's too bad for them.
I too converted but it was many yrs ago. I grew up anti Catholic as was my immediate family. Prayer and start attending Mass and possibly with your grand Mother would be a excellent start. As you have by now already noticed if you had not before but how quickly satan sends his deceived people to attack your decision. But i first above all things is the Prayer and attendance at Mass.Get to know your future Catholic brothers and sisters and you might even be surprised after attending mass a few times how many people you know that you had no idea they were Catholic but were always people you respected. But above all pray and believe me GOD will support you and see you through this with the aid of the Saints. Remember the story of the young man whose Father see's him returning and prepares the celebration or the parable of the one lost sheep that Christ tells. So i end this by simply saying WELCOME HOME...
If your Grandmother is Catholic, most likely your Mother was also at one time.





I doubt they will go off the wall about it, it is not like you are wanting to go and join some far out belief.





You will still be Christian.





Study the Catholic faith first to see if that is where you are called to be. I suggest you contact your local parish and find out if it is to late to get into RCIA classes.





Catholics want you to understand what you are joining before you make the commitment, this is a really good thing.





You can find a Parish near you at www.masstimes.org





Just talk with them, if all else fails, you are 18, and old enough to make up you own mind.





Good Luck and God Bless your Journey.
Read up more. It will be easier to talk to your family when your heart longs to be Catholic. Rather than just being interested in it. Or having grown to love it.





I highly recommend Catholicism for Dummies. Very informative. Easy to read. Many parishes are using it for RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) because it's better than the ';standard.';
I believe that if you truly believe in Jesus, and God the creator, then nothing else should stop you.





“and Him only you shall serve” (Matthew 4:10), says it quite well.





As for your family, if they feel a strong connection with Christ, then quite honestly, it shouldn't make a difference in which manner you believe in him. The bible says nothing about various denominations within believing in Jesus nor God, why should it matter now? If your grandmother's a Catholic as well, then I believe they ought to have enough respect as to supporting your decision as well.





Edit - Fatima: Take a look at this:


http://www.apologeticspress.org/articles…





The deity in the Quaran in no way represents that of God in the bible (old/new testament) nor the teachings of Jesus who for the most part is seen as a ';great prophet';. Funny how the Quaran manages to list Angels as worshiping Adam, when the only person who ought to be worshiped is God.
My Heartfelt Congratulations and Thanks be to God for leading you to the Truth in Jesus Christ who is Lord and God and the way to God the Father in his Roman Catholic Church.i suggest you talk to your experiences so that they will be more comfortable with your choice and gradually accept you for who you are.You could come to the nearest Roman Catholic Church or Eastern Catholic if you are interested in the Eastern Rites of the Catholic Church to speak to a priest.He would probably encourage you to take the RCIA(Rite of Christian Initiation) course or even private lessons if you would like.The road will not be easy and you hav to regularly come for lessons and prepare for your Baptism You must take vows in front of the whole Congregation during Holy Mass and a priest before finally baptised oon Holy Saturday or a day that is arranged by the Catholic Church


Once again Congratulations


Yours in Christ
I'm going to assume your Mother was once a practicing Catholic...Since your Grandmother is.


It shouldn't be difficult for her {your Mom) to understand. Your Mom crossed that bridge once when she left the Church.





Let your Grandmother start opening doors for you. Set up an appointment and enroll in RCIA. You may want to join a prayer group also.





Welcome Home %26amp; God Bless
The first thing you should do is speak with a priest. Afterwards, begin learning as much as you can about the Church. If you think there is going to be a problem with your family (who I assume are Protestant) you need to be ready to defend your decision in a polite manner. Start here:





http://www.catholic.com/





Down the page there is a section called Library. It's actually a short read but it will help address the objections your family might have.





Good luck on your journey!
Praise GOD!!! Congratulations on the grace you have received to desire to be Catholic. Well, to become Catholic, just go to your local parish and ask them how you can sign up for RCIA classes. From there, after you are done with the class, you will be initiated during the Easter season and a welcomed part of our Church.





GOD BLESS!!!!
I am a convert as well. Welcome home! You are going to feel as if you have passed from the darkness into the light. Check out my blog as it is written to help you when those other Christian question your decision. God bless!





In Christ


Fr. Joseph
Hey brother. I am Maronite Catholic, it is the Eastern Catholic church. What are your questions regarding Catholics? I can answer for you, on here or feel free to send me a message. Also, go out and attend a Catholic service so you can see first hand. God bless
Go to the nearest parish and speak to the priest there he will guide you in the right direction. Or call him on the phone and make an appointment.
%26lt;%26lt;Catholics: Thinking about converting need advice and guidence?%26gt;%26gt;





Excellent! Congrats and good luck.








%26lt;%26lt;I am a 18 year old male of the christian faith. My mother and father are christian and my grandma(on my mothers side) is catholic. Recently I've been asking her question's about the catholic faith and find it highly interesting and have grown to love it, and am thinking about converting. I'm not sure how to tell my family or what to do, I am in desperate need of guidance please help%26gt;%26gt;





As far as ';what to do'; is concerned, if you haven't already started, start attending Catholic Mass regularly. You can participate in every facet of the Mass with the exception of Holy Communion.


When you feel comfortable enough, talk to the priest about enrolling in RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults). This entails instruction on Catholic Dogma and reception of the Holy Sacraments of Initiation.





I presume you're already Baptized, since you're a Christian. You will need (first) Holy Communion - after which you can then receive Holy Communion at Mass. And then it all culminates with the reception of Confirmation.





RCIA is tailored to each converts specific ';needs';. You can get a 'head-start' on your 'studies', by obtaining a copy of the Catechism of the Catholic Church and reading it. inexpensive pocket-book editions of the Catechism are available at Walmst for around four bucks, so I'm told.





As far as telling your parents about converting to Catholicism, that's anyone's guess how they will react. I'm encouraged by the fact your grand mother is Catholic. Since there is already a Catholic presence in your family, perhaps the idea of you converting to Catholicism wouldn't be ';foreign'; as it might be for someone with no Catholic relatives.





I don't know how your parents are going to react. If they react negatively, hopefully you'll find consolation in the fact converting to Catholicism is the Right thing to do - and that your parents will make their peace with Catholicity sooner rather than later.
Hey devo!!





Many of my fellow Catholics have provided you with some excellent advice. In addition to talking with a local Catholic priest and inquiring about the RCIA program, I'd recommend praying the rosary regularly. The Virgin Mary is Our Lady of Good Counsel, and can provide you with guidance as you go through the conversion process. See the following promises.





The rosary is explained here:


http://www.ewtn.com/Devotionals/prayers/…





The fifteen promises of Mary to Christians who recite the rosary:


1. Whoever shall faithfully serve me by the recitation of the Rosary shall receive signal graces.


2. I promise my special protection and the greatest graces to all those who shall recite the Rosary.


3. The Rosary shall be a powerful armor against Hell, it will destroy vice, decrease sin, and defeat heresies.


4. It will cause virtue and good works to flourish; it will obtain for souls the abundant mercy of God; it will withdraw the hearts of men from the love of the world and its vanities and will lift them to the desire of eternal things. Oh, that souls would sanctify themselves by this means.


5. The soul which recommends itself to me by the recitation of the Rosary, shall not perish.


6. Whoever shall recite the Rosary devoutly, applying himself to the consideration of its sacred mysteries, shall never be conquered by misfortune. God will not chastise him in His justice, he shall not perish by an unprovided death; if he be just, he shall remain in the grace of God and become worthy of eternal life.


7. Whoever shall have a true devotion for the Rosary shall not die without the Sacraments of the Church.


8. Those who are faithful to recite the Rosary shall have during their life and at their death the light of God and the plenitude of His graces; at the moment of death, they shall participate in the merits of the saints in Paradise.


9. I shall deliver from Purgatory those who have been devoted to the Rosary.


10. The faithful children of the Rosary shall merit a high degree of glory in Heaven.


11. You shall obtain all you ask of me by the recitation of the Rosary.


12. All those who propagate the Holy Rosary shall be aided by me in their necessities.


13. I have obtained from my Divine Son that all the advocates of the Rosary shall have for intercessors the entire Celestial Court during their life and at the hour of death.


14. All who recite the Rosary are my sons, and brothers of my only Son, Jesus Christ.


15. Devotion to my Rosary is a great sign of predestination.





God bless!


Dave
dont bother catholocism is comming to an end and its a bout time


read your history ask about the witch hunts, read about the estimated 65million people been killed in the name of god you dont need religion all you need is faith you dont need a church to talk to god by the way i was baptized a catholic
Read the book of mormon.
SOME SCIENTISTS' COMMENTS REGARDING THE QUR'AN





… There are too many accuracies [in the Qur'an] and, like Dr. Moore, I have no difficulty in my mind that this is a divine inspiration or revelation which led him to these statements.270 (Dr. T. V. N. Persaud, Professor of Anatomy, Pediatrics and Child Health, Obstetrics, Gynecology, Reproductive Sciences at the University of Manitoba)





… It follows, I think, that not only there is no conflict between genetics and religion but, in fact, religion can guide science by adding revelation to some of the traditional scientific approaches, that there exist statements in the Quran shown centuries later to be valid, which support knowledge in the Quran having been derived from God.271 (Dr. Joe Leigh Simpson, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Molecular and Human Genetics)





As a scientist, I can only deal with things which I can specifically see. I can understand embryology and developmental biology. I can understand the words that are translated to me from the Quran. As I gave the example before, if I were to transpose myself into that era, knowing what I knew today and describing things, I could not describe the things which were described… So I see nothing here in conflict with the concept that divine intervention was involved in what he [Prophet Muhammad (saas)] was able to write.272 (Dr. E. Marshall Johnson, Professor Emeritus of Anatomy and Developmental Biology at Thomas Jefferson University)





In a relatively few aayahs [Quranic verses] is contained a rather comprehensive description of human development from the time of commingling of the gametes through organogenesis. No such distinct and complete record of human development, such as classification, terminology, and description, existed previously. In most, if not all, instances, this description antedates by many centuries the recording of the various stages of human embryonic and fetal development recorded in the traditional scientific literature.273 (Gerald C. Goeringer, Associate Professor of Medical Embryology at Georgetown University)





It has been a great pleasure for me to help clarify statements in the Qur'an about human development. It is clear to me that these statements must have come to [Prophet] Muhammad [saas] from God, or Allah, because most of this knowledge was not discovered until many centuries later. This proves to me that [Prophet] Muhammad [saas] must have been a messenger of God, or Allah.274 (Dr. Keith L. Moore, Professor Emeritus, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Toronto. Distinguished embryologist and the author of several medical textbooks)





... Because the staging of human embryos is complex, owing to the continuous process of change during development, it is proposed that a new system of classification could be developed using the terms mentioned in the Qur'an and Sunnah. The proposed system is simple, comprehensive, and conforms with present embryological knowledge.275 (Dr. Keith L. Moore, Professor Emeritus, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Toronto)





The intensive studies of the Qur'an and Hadith in the last four years have revealed a system of classifying human embryos that is amazing since it was recorded in the seventh century A.D... the descriptions in the Qur'an cannot be based on scientific knowledge in the seventh century... 276 (Dr. Keith L. Moore, Professor Emeritus, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Toronto)





I think it is almost impossible that he [Prophet Muhammad (saas)] could have known about things like the common origin of the universe, because scientists have only found out within the last few years with very complicated and advanced technological methods that this is the case… Somebody who did not know something about nuclear physics 1400 years ago could not, I think, be in a position to find out from his own mind for instance that the earth and the heavens had the same origin, or many others of the questions that we have discussed here.277 (Alfred Kroner, Professor of the Department of Geosciences, University of Mainz, Germany. One of the world's most famous geologists)





If you combine all these and you combine all these statements that are being made in the Qur'an in terms that relate to the earth and the formation of the earth and science in general, you can basically say that statements made there in many ways are true, they can now be confirmed by scientific methods... And that many of the statements made in there at that time could not be proven, but that modern scientific methods are now in a position to prove what [Prophet] Muhammad [saas] said 1400 years ago.278 (Alfred Kroner, Professor of the Department of Geosciences, University of Mainz, Germany)





I say, I am very much impressed by finding true astronomical facts in Qur'an, and for us modern astronomers have been studying very small piece of the universe. We have concentrated our efforts for understanding of ver